The E2 visa, designed for treaty investors who wish to enter the United States for the purpose of furthering a bona fide enterprise, is not only critical for fostering foreign investments but is also emblematic of the cross-border entrepreneurial spirit. However, the processing times and methods can differ drastically based on several factors. In this article, we'll delve into the dynamics that influence the processing duration and approach of the E2 visa.
While the requirements for an E2 visa remain consistent, the time it takes to process can be as diverse as the landscapes of the countries they are issued from. The primary reason for this variability is the consulate post where the application is submitted.
Certain consulate posts are reputed to be swifter due to the sheer number of officers they have on duty. With more hands on deck, it's only logical that these posts can process applications faster. Conversely, posts with fewer officers might see longer processing times. Therefore, when considering where to file an E2 visa application, it's essential to research the post's general processing timeline.
The global pandemic ushered in an era of uncertainty, and its impact on E2 visa processing has been palpable. With many consular services temporarily halted or reduced, backlogs have become an unfortunate norm.
Take Toronto, for instance. Prior to the pandemic, their consulate post had an efficient system, but by 2023, they faced delays extending up to six months. Paris, another major consulate post, is also grappling with significant lags as of September 2023. This can be attributed to the precautionary restrictions, reduced workforce, and the mounting number of applications that were paused during the height of the pandemic.
One silver lining amidst the administrative complexities is that certain consulate posts are open to processing E2 visa applications for individuals not originally from their host country. For instance, a French national has the option to apply for the E2 visa at the US Embassy in Canada, even if they don't hail from Canada. This flexibility can be a boon for applicants seeking to circumvent prolonged waiting times in their home country or those who are currently residing in a third country.
While the aim remains consistent - to assess the legitimacy and viability of an investment - the road to that end is not uniform across consular posts. Some posts have implemented digitalized systems where applicants schedule their interviews via online portals even before submitting their application. This system, though proactive, may not offer much insight into the application's progress.
In contrast, other consulate posts adopt a more hands-on approach. They will first scrutinize the application, making preliminary judgments, which may constitute up to 90% of the final decision, before inviting the applicant for an interview. This method offers a clearer picture of the application's standing but might require a longer wait for the face-to-face interview.
It's noteworthy to mention the sheer range of processing times seen for the E2 visa. At one end of the spectrum, the most efficient cases have been processed in less than 15 days - a testament to the potential speediness of certain consular posts. On average, however, applicants can expect a waiting period ranging from 45 to 60 days. Yet, there are instances where the process stretches out, and applicants find themselves in a prolonged limbo that can extend up to a staggering 6 months. This variability underscores the importance of being prepared for a range of outcomes and setting realistic expectations when applying for the E2 visa.
In Conclusion
The E2 visa application process is intricate and multi-layered, with its pace and procedure largely contingent on the consulate post in question. While external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic have introduced unforeseen challenges, understanding the nuances of different consulate posts can offer applicants a strategic advantage. Always remember to stay updated on the latest regulations and practices, as the landscape of international visa processing is ever-evolving.
Sylvain Perret is a business professional who has been living in the United States since 2010. Along with his wife Daphnee, he has established several businesses in the country, including Integrity International Brokers, an agency based in Orlando where he works as a business broker, real estate broker, business consultant, and business plan writer. Over the years, he has helped numerous clients from around the world achieve success in their projects to create or take over a company in the United States with an E2 visa. He is highly knowledgeable about U.S. immigration issues and is the author of the book "S'expatrier aux USA grâce aux visas d'entrepreneurs," which is soon to be translated into English. Sylvain is also a Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) by the International Business Brokers Association and is regularly consulted on issues related to this field. At the age of 50, Sylvain chose to enhance his expertise in finance and strategy by pursuing a Master of Business Administration from the University of Central Florida. He successfully graduated in May 2023, adding a valuable finishing touch to his knowledge. He is active on LinkedIn and Twitter, where he shares his insights and experiences with a wider audience.
